About Wilson County
Wilson County is located in Middle Tennessee, situated approximately 30 miles east of Nashville along Interstate 40. Established in 1799, Wilson County was named after Major David Wilson, a Tennessee legislator and veteran of the Revolutionary War. Wilson County Seat is Lebanon, while Watertown and Mount Juliet are other significant incorporated cities within Wilson County's 571 square miles. As of the 2020 Census, Wilson County had a population of approximately 147,737 residents, making it one of the fastest-growing counties in Tennessee.
- Wilson County Register of Deeds office, located at 228 East Main Street in Lebanon, maintains property records dating back to Wilson County's founding.
Wilson County is characterized by rolling hills, productive agricultural land, and increasing suburban development driven by its proximity to Nashville's metropolitan area. Major landmarks include Cedars of Lebanon State Park, the historic Wilson County Courthouse in downtown Lebanon, and the extensive commercial corridor along Interstate 40. Wilson County Clerk's office, also at the County Courthouse Complex at 228 East Main Street, handles court records, marriage licenses, and various county business.
Wilson Property Assessor of Property office, situated at 109 North Castle Heights Avenue in Lebanon, is responsible for property assessments and tax records. Wilson County's strategic location between Nashville and the Cumberland Plateau has made it an attractive destination for residential growth, retail development, and distribution center operations, fundamentally transforming its character from rural agricultural to suburban mixed-use over the past three decades.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
Wilson County Sheriff's Office is responsible for law enforcement in the unincorporated areas of Wilson County. It manages Wilson County jail, processes arrests, and maintains criminal records. The office is involved in community policing and operates various programs such as crime prevention initiatives and school resource officer programs.
Police Departments
Wilson County is served by Wilson County Sheriff's Office and several municipal police departments, including the Lebanon Police Department, Mount Juliet Police Department, and Watertown Police Department. Each department is responsible for law enforcement within its respective city limits, while the Sheriff's Office covers the unincorporated areas. These agencies collaborate on major crimes and emergencies, making sure of full law enforcement coverage throughout Wilson County.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
Wilson County Sheriff's Office, headquartered at 109 North Castle Heights Avenue in Lebanon, Tennessee 37087, is the primary law enforcement agency for unincorporated areas of Wilson County.
- Processing fees typically apply for copies, usually ranging from $0.15 to $0.50 per page.
- Mugshots and booking photos are generally considered public records in Tennessee and are often available through the jail's online inmate roster system or by submitting a formal public records request.
- Tennessee law requires agencies to respond to public records requests promptly, and the requester must be notified within seven business days whether the request will be granted.
The facility typically maintains an online inmate lookup system that is updated multiple times daily. Municipal police departments serve the incorporated cities: the Lebanon Police Department (410 Murfreesboro Road, Lebanon), the Mount Juliet Police Department (2660 North Mount Juliet Road, Mount Juliet), and the Watertown Police Department serve their respective jurisdictions. Arrest records in Wilson County are public documents subject to Tennessee's Public Records Act, codified in Tennessee Code Annotated § 10-7-503 and § 10-7-504, which establishes the right of citizens to inspect and copy public records.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
Criminal records in Wilson County cover felony, misdemeanor, traffic offenses, and sex offender registry information. Background checks in Tennessee can be conducted through the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, which provides full criminal history reports for residents. The TBI's database includes statewide criminal records, offering a broader scope for background checks.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Wilson County are maintained by Wilson County Sheriff's Office. These records can be requested by residents and attorneys through the Sheriff's Office, either in person or via written request. An arrest record typically includes the individual's personal information, details of the arrest, charges, and booking information. The Tennessee Public Records Act governs access to these records, for public access and public access to government documents.
Jail & Inmate Records
Wilson County Jail, located in Lebanon, is the primary detention facility for Wilson County. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and documenting the charges against an individual. Inmate information can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office, which provides an online inmate lookup tool. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, requiring visitors to schedule appointments and adhere to security protocols. In Tennessee, the bond process involves posting bail through a bail bondsman or directly with the court, allowing the release of an inmate pending trial.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
Mugshots in Wilson County are taken and retained by Wilson County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These booking photos are part of the public record and can be accessed through the Sheriff's Office website or by request. Tennessee does not have specific laws for the removal of mugshots from public records, but individuals may seek removal through legal channels if the charges are dismissed or if they are acquitted.
Courts & Case Records
Wilson County's judicial system is anchored by Wilson County Circuit Court and Chancery Court, both located at Wilson County Courthouse, 228 East Main Street, Lebanon, TN 37087. The Circuit Court (phone: 615-444-9522) has general jurisdiction over civil cases exceeding $25,000, criminal felony cases, and appeals from lower courts. The Chancery Court handles equity cases, probate matters, adoptions, divorces, and certain civil disputes.
- Wilson County also has General Sessions Court, which exercises jurisdiction over civil cases up to $25,000, preliminary hearings in felony cases, misdemeanor criminal cases, and traffic violations.
- Tennessee provides public access to court records under the Tennessee Public Records Act (T.C.
- While some Tennessee counties have implemented online case search portals, Wilson County primarily requires in-person or written requests for court record searches.
- Fees for certified copies are typically $5.00 for the first page and $0.50 for each additional page.
The General Sessions Court is located at the same courthouse complex and can be reached at 615-443-2827. Wilson County Juvenile Court handles all matters involving minors, including delinquency, dependency and neglect, and unruly conduct cases. § 10-7-503 et seq.) and Tennessee Supreme Court Rule 30, which governs access to judicial records.
Wilson County courts maintain case records that can be searched in person at the Circuit Court Clerk's office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM). The Circuit Court Clerk's office can provide information on case status, hearing dates, and disposition information. Criminal court records are generally public unless sealed by court order, while certain juvenile and mental health records are confidential under state law.
Property & Public Records
Wilson County Register of Deeds, located at 228 East Main Street, Lebanon, TN 37087 (phone: 615-444-9343), maintains land records including warranty deeds, quitclaim deeds, deeds of trust, mortgages, releases, easements, right-of-way documents, plat maps, and subdivision plans. The Register of Deeds office has indexed records dating back to Wilson County's establishment in 1799, providing an extensive historical record of land ownership and transfers. Tennessee law requires that most real property instruments be recorded to provide constructive notice to subsequent purchasers and creditors.
- The office provides public access to these records during regular business hours, and staff can assist with document research for a nominal fee.
- Wilson County offers an online land records search system through the Register of Deeds website, allowing users to search by name, document type, date range, and book/page reference.
- While basic searches may be available at no cost, certified copies require payment of recording fees, typically $12.00 for the first page and $2.00 for each additional page.
- Wilson County provides an online GIS mapping system through Wilson County Property Assessor's website, enabling users to search parcels by owner name, address, or parcel identification number.
Vital Records
Birth and death certificates for events occurring in Wilson County are maintained by the Tennessee Department of Health, Office of Vital Records, located at Andrew Johnson Tower, 710 James Robertson Parkway, Nashville, TN 37243. Tennessee law, codified in Tennessee Code Annotated § 68-3-101 et seq, governs the registration and confidentiality of vital records. Birth certificates in Tennessee are confidential for 100 years and can only be obtained by the registrant (if of legal age), parents listed on the certificate, legal guardians, or their legal representatives.
- Certified copies of birth certificates cost $15.00 for the first copy and $10.00 for each additional copy ordered at the same time; death certificates are $8.00 for the first copy and $4.00 for additional copies.
- Processing time for mail requests is typically 4-6 weeks, though expedited service is available for an additional fee.
- The Tennessee Office of Vital Records offers online ordering through VitalChek (www.vitalchek.com), which provides faster processing but includes additional service fees.
- Marriage licenses are issued by Wilson County Clerk's office at 228 East Main Street, Lebanon, TN 37087 (phone: 615-444-9398).
- The marriage license fee in Wilson County is approximately $99.00, reduced to $38.00 with proof of premarital course completion.
Death certificates are public records after 50 years; within that period, they are restricted to immediate family members, legal representatives, or persons with a direct and tangible interest. Walk-in service is available at the state vital records office in Nashville during business hours. Tennessee requires a 24-hour waiting period after obtaining a marriage license, though this can be waived with completion of a premarital preparation course.
Divorce records are maintained by the Circuit Court Clerk in Wilson County where the divorce was granted. Both parties must appear in person with valid photo identification to obtain a marriage license in Tennessee.
Business & Licensing
Business licensing in Wilson County is administered through multiple agencies depending on the type of business and its location. Wilson County Clerk's office at 228 East Main Street, Lebanon, TN 37087 (phone: 615-444-9398) processes assumed name registrations (DBAs) and certain local business licenses. Tennessee law requires businesses operating under a name other than the owner's legal name to file a certificate of assumed name with Wilson County clerk in each county where the business operates. The filing fee is typically $20.00, and registrations must be renewed every five years.
- For formal business entity formation (corporations, limited liability companies, limited partnerships), businesses must register with the Tennessee Secretary of State, Business Services Division.
- The Secretary of State maintains a searchable online database at tnbear.tn.gov, where users can look up business entities, view formation documents, check registration status, and review annual reports.
- Building permits and zoning compliance in unincorporated Wilson County are handled by Wilson County Codes Department, located at 109 North Castle Heights Avenue, Lebanon (phone: 615-444-1412).
The Tennessee Department of Revenue handles sales tax permits and certain business tax registrations; applications can be submitted online through the TNTAP system at tntap.tn.gov. Professional and occupational licenses are administered by various state boards under the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance. The Cities of Lebanon, Mount Juliet, and Watertown each maintain separate building inspection and business licensing requirements for businesses operating within their corporate limits.
Wilson County Joint Economic Development Board promotes business development and can provide information on incentives and site selection. The Lebanon-Wilson County Chamber of Commerce, located at 149 Public Square, Lebanon, TN 37087 (website: www.lebanonwilsonchamber.com), provides networking opportunities and business resources for the local business community.
Elections & Voter Records
Elections in Wilson County are administered by Wilson County Election Commission, located at 109 North Castle Heights Avenue, Lebanon, TN 37087 (phone: 615-444-9497). The Election Commission oversees voter registration, maintains voter rolls, manages polling places, conducts early voting, processes absentee ballots, and certifies election results. Tennessee offers online voter registration through the Secretary of State's website at ovr.govote.tn.gov, where eligible citizens can register or update their registration information.
- To register, applicants must be a U.S.
- Campaign finance reports filed by candidates and political action committees are public and can be accessed through the Tennessee Bureau of Ethics and Campaign Finance at www.tn.gov/tec.
- In the November 2024 general election, Wilson County reported turnout of approximately 73% of registered voters, reflecting higher-than-average engagement in a presidential election year.
- Absentee ballot applications must be requested through Wilson County Election Commission, and completed ballots must be received by the close of polls on election day to be counted.
- Tennessee law requires that absentee ballots be requested no later than seven days before the election.
The voter registration deadline in Tennessee is 30 days prior to any election. Citizen, a resident of Tennessee, at least 18 years old on or before election day, and not have been convicted of certain felonies (or had voting rights restored). Voters can verify their registration status and find their assigned polling place by using the online lookup tool at tnmap.tn.gov/voterlookup or by contacting the Election Commission directly.
Wilson County typically operates approximately 20 polling locations on election day, distributed across Lebanon, Mount Juliet, Watertown, and various community centers in rural areas. Early voting is conducted at multiple locations for approximately two weeks prior to election day, including weekends. Under Tennessee's Public Records Act (T.C.
§ 10-7-503), voter registration lists are public records available for inspection, though they cannot be used for commercial solicitation. Precinct-level election results are published by the Election Commission following certification and are available on Wilson County website and through the Tennessee Secretary of State. The next major election is November 3, 2026, featuring Tennessee's gubernatorial race, statewide offices, U.S.
House of Representatives seats, and local county positions. Tennessee requires an excuse for absentee voting; eligible reasons include being 60 years or older, acting as a juror, being hospitalized or having a physical disability, being a caretaker of a disabled person, being a student or employee outside Wilson County, being in the military, or being unable to vote during early voting and election day due to work obligations. Wilson County Election Commission provides full information on candidate filings, sample ballots, and election procedures on its website and through public notices in local newspapers.
Economy & Demographics
Wilson County has experienced significant economic transformation over the past three decades, evolving from a predominantly agricultural economy to a diverse mix of manufacturing, distribution, retail, and service industries. Wilson County's proximity to Nashville and strategic location along Interstate 40 has attracted major distribution centers and logistics operations.
- Census data, Wilson County's median household income is approximately $79,000, significantly higher than the Tennessee state median.
Major employers in Wilson County include Cracker Barrel Old Country Store headquarters in Lebanon, Amazon fulfillment centers in Mount Juliet, the Vanderbilt University Medical Center complex, and numerous manufacturing facilities. The retail sector has expanded dramatically, particularly along the Providence corridor in Mount Juliet, which features extensive shopping and dining establishments. According to recent U.S.
The unemployment rate typically tracks below both state and national averages, reflecting Wilson County's strong job market. Key economic sectors include warehousing and distribution (benefiting from interstate access), healthcare services, retail trade, construction, and professional services. Agriculture remains economically significant in rural areas, with cattle farming, row crops, and nursery operations contributing to the local economy.
Wilson County has attracted corporate investments due to its lower tax structure compared to Davidson County (Nashville), available land for development, and quality of life factors. Notable economic development projects include the Beckwith Road corridor development in Mount Juliet, ongoing commercial expansion along Highway 109, and industrial park developments near the interstate exchanges. Wilson County Industrial Development Board actively recruits new businesses and supports existing industry expansion.
Wilson County's population growth rate exceeds 2% annually in recent years, driving continued demand for housing, retail, and services. Tourism contributes to the economy through Cedars of Lebanon State Park, historic downtown Lebanon, and various festivals and events throughout the year.
Transparency Score
Court Records: Limited: In-Person/Limited Online | Property: Yes: Online GIS & Deed Search | Arrest/Jail: Yes: Online Inmate Roster | Vital Records: Limited: State Office/VitalChek | Business: Yes: Online (Secretary of State) | Elections: Yes: Online Voter Lookup | Overall Score: 7/10, Wilson County provides solid digital access to property, jail, and voter records, but court records primarily require in-person research.
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Cities & Towns in Wilson County
Explore public records for 6 cities and communities in Wilson County, Tennessee.